The Bearcats (13-0, 1-0) extended their best start since the 2003-04 season, when they also won their first 13 under coach Bob Huggins.

Dion Dixon added 16 points and Yancy Gates had 15 in a balanced offense. After a sluggish start, Cincinnati took control with a 34-6 run sparked by its energetic halfcourt pressure.

DePaul (6-7, 0-1) came apart, repeatedly shooting air balls and throwing the ball away - a familiar performance on the road, where the Blue Demons have lost their last 24 games. Cleveland Melvin had a career-high 24 points for DePaul.